The
Aloha Scamp Spirit Early Spring 2018
Aloha Maidens! This winter, I was lucky enough to speak at several conferences and meetings about two topics that are dear to my heart: nurturing resilience in girls, and developing an effective leadership program for teenagers (on the SubClub, Club, Midi/Floater model). Basically, people asked me to stand in front of them and talk about camp; talk about a no-brainer. As I shared insights into our Aloha philosophy and fielded questions from participants, I was struck by the words that came up most often: trust, empathy, self-confidence, intentionality, belonging, resilience, friendship, problem-solving, safety, failure, strength, community. These are some of the words that shape our experiences together, that shape who we are. I believe that the words we use shape how we think, and I could not feel prouder or more inspired when I consider the ways in which we choose to think about ourselves at camp. In a world that so often emphasizes our imperfections and urges us to compete with one another — for grades, for brands, for online followers — we choose
to define ourselves differently. We choose to encourage one another as we learn new skills, to celebrate one another for accomplishments large and small, to connect with one another in authentic ways over misty mornings, silly songs, rain-soaked sneakers, and toasted marshmallows. We find meaning in the words we write privately to ourselves, and in those we share publicly in recognitions on Sunday nights. We even create new words when we need them, as we define the essence of the PAM! I feel honored to share with others some of the words, values and beliefs that characterize our Aloha. As you read the words and look at the pictures on the following pages, I hope you remember some of the fun of our 2017 summer together, and feel the spirit of the 05045 coursing strong within you. I am counting down the days until we’re all together again! Aloha,
Sarah Gordon Littlefield Aloha Director
aloha scamp spirit • Early Spring 2018
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